Speaking at the inauguration of the Esenyurt Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Educational Complex in Istanbul, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan underscored the government’s commitment to safeguarding young minds from the dangers of digital platforms.

He announced that new measures will be implemented in 2025, designated as the 'Year of the Family,' to combat issues arising from digital games and social media.

Erdoğan emphasized the importance of a well-rounded education for Türkiye’s youth, describing them as the country’s future and a vital assurance of its independence. He stressed the need for an education system that enables students to understand the world they live in, utilize resources effectively, and shape the future with their knowledge and experience.

Expressing concern over the increasing digital and screen addiction among young people, President Erdoğan stated: “We cannot leave our children alone and unattended in digital platforms’ uncontrolled and disorderly climate that is full of threats. No matter who says what, we cannot remain to be mere onlookers to the invasion of young minds under the pretext of freedom.”

He reiterated the government’s resolve to address these concerns with regulatory measures set to take effect next year, aiming to create a safer digital environment for children and teenagers.

Highlighting the country’s progress in the education sector, Erdoğan noted that investments in education are yielding positive results. He cited the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2023 report, published in December 2023, which recognized Türkiye as one of the four nations that have consistently improved in mathematics and science over the past two decades.

Additionally, the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2023 report, released in December 2024, showed significant improvements in Türkiye’s short- and long-term educational performance. The report particularly highlighted the country's upward trend in success rates at the fourth and eighth-grade levels.

Erdoğan’s speech reinforced the government’s dedication to shaping an education system that not only focuses on academic excellence but also ensures the well-being of children in an increasingly digital world. (ILKHA)